Awakening
/əˈweɪkənɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe process of waking from sleep or a state of unconsciousness; the moment of becoming aware of something.
/əˈweɪkənɪŋ/
The act of waking up; a state of becoming aware.
The sudden awakening startled him.
💡 Simply: Waking up or becoming aware.
More Examples
The nation is experiencing a political awakening.
How It's Used
"The awakening was abrupt; the alarm clock blared."
"She experienced a spiritual awakening after her travels."
A sudden realization or increase in understanding; a turning point.
/əˈweɪkənɪŋ/
A period of increased awareness or understanding.
The civil rights movement marked an awakening for the country.
💡 Simply: Gaining a new understanding.
More Examples
There was an awakening of interest in environmental issues.
How It's Used
"The novel depicts a societal awakening."
From Old English *āwǣcnian, from ā- 'away' + wǣcnian 'to awaken'. The modern word reflects a long history of expressing the transition from sleep or unconsciousness to wakefulness.
Historically, the word has often been used in a religious or spiritual context, referring to a conversion or a newfound faith.
Memory tip
Think of 'a' (away from sleep) 'waking' (becoming active).